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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Vibrant Lemon Basil Pasta Salad for Easy Weeknight Meals

A refreshing Lemon Basil Pasta Salad recipe perfect for easy weeknight meals, combining vibrant flavors with wholesome veggies.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups Pasta any pasta shape, gluten-free options work great
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil essential for flavor
  • 1/2 cup Parsley can substitute with cilantro
  • 1 medium Zucchini can substitute with summer squash or peppers
  • 1 medium Red Onion can substitute with yellow or green onion
  • 1 cup Artichoke Hearts opt for marinated for extra flavor
  • 2 cups Spinach can substitute with arugula
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Dairy-Free Yogurt use your favorite plant-based yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon Miso Paste can substitute with nutritional yeast
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil high-quality extra virgin recommended
  • 2 cloves Garlic fresh minced garlic

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Blender
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by washing and cutting your zucchini into thin slices. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for about 10 minutes. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced red onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Combine with spinach and artichoke hearts in a bowl.
  4. In the same skillet, increase heat to medium-high and add zucchini slices. Sear for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Combine with the other vegetables in the bowl.
  5. In a blender, combine basil, lemon zest, minced garlic, dairy-free yogurt, miso paste, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning with salt and lemon juice.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with sautéed vegetables and half of the dressing. Toss gently and serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 7gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Let your salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.

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